July 25, 2022 15 min read

Updated on: January 14, 2024

Inflatable Fishing Kayaks

Woman fishing on an inflatable kayak

If regular kayaks for fishing weren’t enough, along came their more comfortable, lightweight, and easier-to-transport cousins. Inflatable kayaks have taken the fishing world by storm thanks to their incredible portability and relatively low price points. 

If you’re looking for an inflatable kayak for your next fishing trip, we’ve put together a list of 7 of the best inflatable fishing kayaks to make your decision a whole lot easier. 

What is a Fishing Kayak?

Woman catch a fish while fishing on a yellow inflatable kayak

Fishing kayaks are extremely similar to regular kayaks, just with some added extras that really set them apart. Like their traditional cousins, fishing kayaks come in a range of designs and styles to put kayak anglers in remote places that once weren’t accessible by larger motorized boats.

Why are Fishing Kayaks Great for Fishing?

Although a kayak is a fair bit smaller than a regular boat, they have a huge amount of benefits when it comes to fishing.

The first is the fact that they’re extremely quiet and streamlined. Some waterways throughout the world prohibit the use of motors, meaning your larger boat isn’t even allowed on the water in the first place. Kayaks, however, are man-powered and can quietly glide over the water without any disturbance. 

If you’ve ever been fishing, then you know this lack of noise also bodes well for your catch success. Fish are usually scared by the noise, so the ability to creep up towards them gives you the upper hand over motorized vessels. 

Additionally, fishing kayaks are cheaper and easier to transport, especially the inflatable kind. Once an Inflatable kayak is deflated, it can fit into a backpack or duffel bag that can then be easily transported to out-of-reach waters or taken on planes and flown overseas. 

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Fishing Kayak

Two inflatable kayaks for fishing

If you’re now swayed in the direction of purchasing an inflatable fishing kayak, there are a few things you need to consider.

Sit-On or Sit-In Kayak

The first thing you need to consider is whether to opt for a sit-on or sit-in kayak. Sit-in kayaks have an enclosed cockpit, whereas sit-on kayaks are completely open, with the user's entire body exposed. 

When it comes to fishing, we suggest a sit-on kayak as they give you more room to store your gear and provide you with larger deck space to move around and cast your line from.

Length

Length plays a role in the overall speed and efficiency of your kayak. Longer kayaks are faster and can cut through the water far more efficiently than shorter kayaks. Shorter kayaks aren’t all bad, however, as they’re much easier to turn and maneuver thanks to their shorter size. 

To decide on the length of your kayak, you should think about the water you’ll be fishing on. If you’ll generally be fishing on large lakes, rivers, or even the ocean, then a longer kayak over 12’ is recommended. For smaller bodies of water, then a shorter kayak under 11’ would be easier to maneuver and control. 

Width

Kayak width is key when it comes to fishing. When casting your line or reeling in your catch of the day, you need all the balance you can get, and that’s where the width of your kayak comes in. 

The wider the kayak, the more stable it is on the water, so look out for a kayak that has a deck of 33” or wider. 

Weight

Weight isn’t too much of an issue for inflatable kayaks as most weigh under the 50 lbs mark and are quite easy to carry once they’re stored in their dedicated carry bag.

If you’re planning on taking your kayak abroad, however, then the kayak's overall weight would need to be carefully thought out. Too heavy of a kayak could tip the airline’s oversized baggage limit, which would result in oversized baggage fees - the way no one wants to start their holiday.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of a regular kayak is something you may not need to think about as it can typically hold over 300 lbs which are more than enough for most grown adults. But, when it comes to fishing kayaks, this total weight capacity is much more important. 

Your weight plus the weight of all your gear could tip past your kayak’s maximum weight capacity and make your kayak sink into the water. If there is too much weight on your kayak, it will be extremely hard to maneuver and paddle through the water, which is why you should always pay close attention to how much weight you’re taking on board.

Combine your weight and the weight of any and all fishing gear that you may have onboard at any given time and compare it to the maximum weight capacities of the kayaks you’re considering. If the numbers come under the limit, you’re good to go; if you’re extremely close to or over the limit, it might be worth opting for a kayak with a larger capacity. 

Accessories

Even inflatable kayaks, with their lower price brackets, can be expensive for some, so finding a kayak with all the included accessories is the way to keep the costs down. After all, you don’t want to purchase your kayak and then be delayed even further by having to spend more money on paddles, pumps, and carry bags.

The 7 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks: Summary

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of inflatable fishing kayaks and what to look out for, let’s get into the 7 best inflatable fishing kayaks currently on the market. 

Kayaks Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Price

1. Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Inflatable Kayak

Sea eagle fasttrack inflatable kayak pro angler package
12’6” x 36” 45 lbs 635 lbs

Check Price

2. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak

Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
12’6” x 33” 44 lbs 600 lbs

Check Price

3. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak

Sevylor coleman colorado tandem fishing kayak

10’6” x 36”

33 lbs

470 lbs

Check Price

4. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series

Intex excursion pro kayak series, Red tandem kayak
12’7” x 36” 39 lbs 400 lbs

Check Price

5. Sea Eagle PF7K PackFish Inflatable

Sea eagle PF7K packfish inflatable boat deluxe fishing package
7’ x 39” 21 lbs 300 lbs

Check Price

6. Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak

Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak One Color
10’8” x 38” 27 lbs 275 lbs

Check Price

7. ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak

ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak, Khaki
10’6” x 38.5” 45 lbs 400 lbs

Check Price

The 7 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks

1. Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Inflatable Kayak

Sea eagle fasttrack inflatable kayak pro angler package

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’6” x 36”

45 lbs

635 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

The Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Inflatable Kayak is a tandem fishing kayak made from 1100 Decitex reinforced fabrics that they claim is almost indestructible. Inside the kayak, you’ll find a non-slip crocodile hide EVA foam protection pad that prevents slipping while also giving the kayak an extra layer of protection against punctures. 

Something unique and mentionable about the 385fta FastTrack kayak is the kayak’s drop stitch-constructed keel. Keels help to keep the kayak on track while also allowing it to cut through the water and reach faster speeds than most other kayaks.No other kayaks on our list have this feature, so we thought it was worth highlighting. 

For storage, your fishing gear can be easily placed in the front or back bungee storage area, and if you’re paddling alone, you can even remove the front seat to make room for additional gear. With a total weight capacity of 635 lbs, carrying a large amount of equipment on the 385fta FastTrack is totally possible. 

Sea Eagle went the extra mile and added front and rear spray skirts to their kayak, which feature built-in rod, hook, and lure holders so you can fish hands-free. Drain plugs at the back of the boat will remove all water from the cockpit, and you can even measure your catch of the day on the 36” side fish rulers. 

Package

Sea Eagle equipped their fishing kayak with everything you’d need to get out on the water once your package arrives. This includes two kayak paddles, a carry duffel bag, a hand pump, and a handy repair kit. 

Specifications and Features

  • Made from 1100 Decitex reinforced fabrics
  • Interior non-slip crocodile hide EVA foam protection pad
  • Drop-stitch constructed keel
  • Front, and back bungee storage
  • Removable seats
  • Front and back spray skirts
  • Built-in rod, hook, and lure holders
  • Drain plugs
  • Front and back carry handles
  • 36” fish measure

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • You can use the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack as a tandem kayak or remove the seat for additional storage space. 
  • The EVA foam protection pad prevents slipping while also giving the kayak extra protection against possible punctures from hooks and lures. 
  • Sea Eagle added a drop-stitch constructed keel to improve the kayak's speed.
  • The 385fta FastTrack can hold a considerable amount of weight, making it a great option for those with lots of fishing gear.
  • There are integrated rod, hook, and lure holders for hands-free fishing. 
  • Sea Eagle included everything you’d need to get out on the water. 
  • The duffel bag may be hard to carry over long distances, so it would be great to see a backpack storage solution. 
  • It is expensive.

2. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak

Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’6” x 33”

44 lbs

600 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

Elkton Outdoors released their Steelhead Fishing Kayak that was constructed with PVC and a rigid drop stitch floor to improve stability when standing and casting your line. As well as improving overall stability, the floor enhances the kayak’s durability allowing it to take on up to class III rapids. 

At the front of the boat, you’ll not only find a bungee storage area but also a spray shield that prevents both you and your gear from getting wet. Numerous mounting points throughout the cockpit are available for you to attach rod holders, bait trays, fish finders, and other accessories, and for your larger gear, you can store it in the additional storage area behind the back seat.

Both of the hi-rise EVA seats on the Steelhead are adjustable, meaning you can move them backwards, forwards, or remove them altogether. They even have removable footrests, which come in handy for long days on the water.

Package

The Steelhead kayak comes with two lightweight paddles that can be broken down to fit in the backpack travel bag, a removable skeg for improved tracking, a high-pressure hand pump, and two removable EVA seats and footrests.

Specifications and Features

  • Made from PVC and accompanied by a drop-stitch floor
  • Front bungee storage area with a spray shield
  • Seven Scotty mounting points
  • Removable EVA seats
  • Drain plugs
  • Front, back, and side carry handles

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing kayak has a rigid floor for improved stability.
  • Your gear will remain dry in the front storage area as it is protected by a spray shield. 
  • There are seven mounting points for rods, fish finders, and bait trays. 
  • Both of the EVA seats can be adjusted and removed. 
  • The kayak comes with a complete package. 
  • It’s expensive. 
  • The storage areas are fairly small once there are two people in the kayak. 

3. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak

Sevylor coleman colorado tandem fishing kayak

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

10’6” x 36”

33 lbs

470 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado was built with fishing in mind. Sevylor designed their kayak from 8-gauge PVC and added a 1000D tarpaulin bottom with an 840D nylon cover to make it as durable as possible against rocks, logs, and other water debris. 

Tandem inflatable fishing kayaks are a great option for anglers as the front seat can be removed to make room for casting or for storing fishing gear. This is no exception when it comes to the Coleman Colorado, as both the seats can be taken out and adjusted to suit your personal preferences. 

To aid in the kayak's durability, Sevylor kitted it out with multiple air chambers, so if one succumbs to a puncture mid-paddle, you’ll be able to make it safely back to shore thanks to the remaining inflated chambers.

One thing the Coleman Colorado lacks is bungee storage areas to tie down bigger gear, but there are mesh pocket storage areas down both sides of the kayak that can hold smaller items like lures, reels, and snacks. 

D-rings all over the boat make the perfect attachment points for other equipment, and there are even paddle holders to store your paddles away when they aren't in use. For a hands-free fishing experience, Sevylor added Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders on both sides of the Coleman Colorado so you can secure your rod in place and paddle simultaneously. 

Package

Although the Coleman Colorado excels when it comes to fishing accessories, the package it comes with, or lack thereof, is a different story. 

With the Coleman Colorado, you’ll only receive the kayak and adjustable seats, meaning you’ll have to source all other accessories separately. 

Specifications and Features

  • Made from 8-gauge PVC with an added 1000D tarpaulin bottom covered with 840D nylon
  • Adjustable and removable seats
  • Multiple air chambers
  • Mesh side pocket storage
  • D-rings throughout the kayak
  • Built-in Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • It is on the more adorable end of the price scale.
  • It is kitted out for fishing with paddle holders, rod holders, and mesh pockets for the smaller tackle. 
  • Sevylor designed it using premium materials that can take on a range of water conditions. 
  • D-rings make handy tie-down points for additional gear.
  • You don’t receive a complete package with the Coleman Colorado, meaning you’d have to source paddles, a pump, and a bag yourself. 

4. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series

Intex excursion pro kayak series, Red tandem kayak

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’7” x 36”

39 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is made from touch laminate PVC and features a polyester core to make it lightweight and highly resistant to damage. Intex included high-pressure spring-loaded valves to the Excursion Pro for easy and quick inflation right at the water’s edge. 

Although there are front and back storage areas on the kayak for your gear, you can also mount accessories such as fishing rod holders and fish finders to the adjustable mounting bracket by the back passenger seat or one of the numerous D-rings located throughout the cockpit.

Both the seats in the kayak are removable and have adjustable backrests and footrests to improve overall comfort. Intex also included a booster seat to improve the back paddler's visibility on the water. 

The Intex Excursion Pro even comes in a smaller singular variation for those who prefer paddling solo. 

Package

The Intex Excursion Pro comes with all the relevant accessories, including two paddles, a high-output pump, a carry duffel bag, a pressure gauge, and two skegs for improved tracking. 

Specifications and Features

  • Made from laminate PVC and a polyester core
  • High-pressure spring valves
  • Front and back storage areas
  • Adjustable mounting bracket
  • D-rings for additional accessories
  • Removable and adjustable seats and footrests

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The Intex Excursion Pro is extremely affordable. 
  • Its high-pressure spring valves make inflating and deflating a breeze. 
  • As well as front and back storage areas, there is also an adjustable mounting bracket and D-rings. 
  • Both the seats are removable and come with adjustable footrests for improved comfort.
  • It is also available in a singular paddler variation. 
  • The carry bag is of low quality and wouldn’t be very comfortable to carry over long distances. 

5. Sea Eagle PF7K PackFish Inflatable

Sea eagle PF7K packfish inflatable boat deluxe fishing package

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

7’ x 39”

21 lbs

300 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

The Sea Eagle PF7K PackFish Inflatable Kayak is a unique fishing kayak as it is only 7 feet long, making it resemble a dinghy more than a kayak. Once inflated, the PackFish is 39 inches wide, but due to the extremely thick sides, the interior space is only 13 inches wide which could be a problem for larger paddlers. 

With that being said, the two-chamber kayak is extremely comfortable thanks to its fully inflatable seat, which features a high backrest. Sea Eagle created their PF7K PackFish from 30 mils thick Polykrylar and added an 840D nylon protective cover to improve its durability and allow it to withstand a beating. 

Although the PackFish is small, it is ideal for fishing due to its front molded rod holders, 36” fish rulers, and molded paddle holder that keeps your paddle secure even when you’re reeling in the big fish. 

Storage was also carefully thought about in this kayak, and although you can’t fit your entire fishing gear collection in the cockpit, you can securely store important items away in the built-in orange zippered side storage bags. 

Package

The deluxe PF7K PackFish package comes with a carry backpack, an inflatable seat, a foot pump, an oar set, and a kayak repair kit.

Specifications and Features

  • Made from 30 mils thick Polykrylar and covered with 840D nylon
  • Built-in rod holders
  • 36” fish rulers
  • Molded paddle holder
  • Side zippered storage compartments
  • Inflatable seat

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Some may say this is the best inflatable fishing kayak on the market because it only weighs 21 lbs meaning you can carry it to waterways all over the world. 
  • The inflatable seat is incredibly comfortable, even over long distances.
  • Built-in rod holders and a paddle holder allow you to fish hands-free. 
  • Side zippered storage areas keep all your gear secure and in one place.
  • The small size of the PF7K PackFish could be an issue for larger paddlers.
  • Even with the side zippered compartments, there is limited storage with nowhere to put larger gear like a cooler. 

6. Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak

Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak One Color

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

10’8” x 38”

27 lbs

275 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

The Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak really takes the sit on top kayak aspect to an extreme. This dedicated inflatable fishing kayak, in some ways, resembles a paddle board as it has extremely low sides compared to most traditional kayaks.

Star Challenger wanted their fishing kayak to be simple and streamlined because sometimes, simple is all you need. The open deck gives you a large space to store gear, and there are even front bungee systems to secure said gear in place. 

Positioned in the center of the kayak is an aluminum-framed mesh seat that puts you at a high vantage point, so you have excellent visibility of the water. For additional gear like your rod holders and fish finders, you can attach them to the bow and stern daisy chains or one of the five surface mounts to allow you to be hands-free on the water at all times.

Although the Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak is incredibly lightweight, Star added front and back carry handles to make it even easier to transport.

Package

The Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak doesn’t come with an included paddle, but you do receive a carry backpack, a pump, a repair kit, and an all-water fin.

Specifications and Features

  • Made from drop-stitch PVC
  • Front bungee storage area
  • Aluminum-framed mesh seat
  • Bow and stern daisy chains
  • Five surface mounts
  • Front and back carry handles

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The low sides of the kayak make it even easier to cast your line.
  • Its wide-open deck gives you ample room for storage.
  • The included seat is adjustable and comfortable.
  • There are five mounts, so you can attach things like rod holders.
  • It’s on the more expensive end of the price scale.
  • It doesn’t include a paddle in its package.

7. ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak

ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak, Khaki

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

10’6” x 38.5”

45 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

Kayak Overview

Advanced Elements constructed their StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak from PVC tarpaulin with polyester fabric sandwiched between the layers. This construction ultimately enhances the StraitEdge’s durability so it can take on many aggressive water conditions.

To further improve the kayak’s durability, Advanced Elements added abrasion pads in high-use areas and designed it with multiple air chambers to prevent the whole boat from going down in the event of a puncture.

To improve tracking, they included built-in aluminum ribs which define the bow and stern, and for stability, they inserted a drop-stitch floor to make the kayak rigid. 

The high-backed seat in the StraitEdge is completely adjustable, removable, and made from an aluminum frame to keep you comfortable on the water for long periods of time. Front and back bungee areas will secure all your larger gear in place, while your rod holders and fish finders can be attached to the included accessory frame system.

Package

The package for the StraitEdge includes two removable accessory frames, a high-back aluminum seat, a duffel bag with shoulder straps, a repair kit, and a manual.

Your paddle and pump would need to be bought separately. 

Specifications and Features

  • Made from PVC tarpaulin and polyester fabric
  • Abrasion pads in high use areas
  • Aluminum ribs for better tracking
  • Drop-stitch floor
  • High-backed aluminum seat
  • Front and back bungee storage areas
  • Accessory frames

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The added abrasion pads in high use areas help to protect the kayak even further.
  • Advanced Elements added aluminum ribbing to improve tracking.
  • The kayak’s drop-stitch floor improves its stability.
  • There are numerous storage areas.
  • It has a paddle holder to secure your paddle in place.
  • A paddle or a pump doesn’t come included with the package, so you’d have to buy these separately. 
  • It is expensive. 

FAQ’S

🏆 How good are inflatable kayaks for fishing?

Inflatable kayaks are a great option for fishing for a few different reasons. The first is that they’re extremely comfortable for long days out on the water.

Secondly, a common misconception about inflatable kayaks is that they aren’t durable. This is completely untrue because as inflatable kayaks have evolved, so have the fabrics they’re made from. Many inflatable kayaks are now just as or even more durable than traditional hard shell kayaks because their inflatable properties aren’t susceptible to dents and dings.

An inflatable fishing kayak is also far easier to transport than regular kayaks. They can be deflated and packed into a small duffel bag or backpack, which can then be carried to remote waterways that aren’t accessible to larger boats.


👍 Is it worth buying an inflatable kayak?

Inflatable kayaks are a fantastic investment. If you take proper care of an inflatable kayak, it can last for many years and still remain in excellent condition.

One of the many and most favored perks of inflatable kayaks is the fact that they can be deflated and packed into a small backpack or duffel bag. Once deflated, they can be stored in small storage spaces like under your bed or in a closet. 

If that wasn’t enough, inflatable kayaks are also extremely durable and are typically a fraction of the price of regular kayaks. 


🏝️ Which inflatable kayak is the most stable for fishing?

When it comes to stability in inflatable kayaks, you need to pay close attention to the kayak's width. In general, wider kayaks are more stable than narrower kayaks, so opting for a kayak that is over 34” will give you all the stability you need for casting and reeling in your fish.

Megan Bryant
Megan Bryant

Based in Bali, her favorite SUP spot is the GILI Islands themselves. Travel is another passion of hers - she dreams to see the entire world one day.


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